The Bushmen inducted into the Hall of Fame

Ogden’s Dave Williamson was a member of The Bushmen band that  was inducted into the Iowa Rock ’n’ Roll Music Association Hall of Fame (IRRHF) Sunday, Sept. 2 in Spirit Lake.

“He was so excited,” said Julie Pierce who attended that evening’s concert at the Roof Garden in Arnold’s Park with her husband, Rod. Another pair of long-time friends, Bob and Becky Waters were present at the induction ceremony, then took in the concert.

“The schedule at the IRRHF was so intense,” said Williamson. “One highlight was being ushered onto the SAMI Center stage by Connie Valens Lemos. Her brother was Richie Valens. Some serious rock ‘n’ roll DNA there.”

Williamson and bass player Bruce Banister, who traveled all the way from Spain, represented The Bushmen on stage. Two other original Bushmen, guitarist Roger Dunlop and Dave Baller (percussion) were unable to attend. 

During the IRRHF concert, Hank Muzney replaced Baller. 

“Hank is also from Jefferson and a 500-year veteran of the music business,” explained Williamson. “He has recorded with The Imperials, The Jordanairs and Boots Randolph. His dad, Don Muzney was the godfather of Greene County guitarists. Don recently passed away, so we dedicated The Bushmen performance that night to him.”

Music from the concert set list included “Pretty Woman,” “Memphis,” and “High Heel Sneakers.” 

Read more in the Sept. 19 issue of The Ogden Reporter.